In light of my recent posts and research interests, this could not come more timely: An article written by Jonathan Brown on Holland's ideas on the origins of Islamic ritual practice of the Salaat, or the five daily prayers that Muslims. Brown is a published scholar on the authenticity of Hadith and other related topics. I highly recommend … Continue reading The origins of the 5 daily Islamic prayers: Jonathan Brown on Tom Holland’s “In the Shadow of the Sword”
criticism
Abraha, the year of the elephant, and the location of Mecca in Tom Holland’s “In the Shadow of the Sword”
So I've finished reading Holland's book on the origins of Islam and I have to say I am not very impressed. I've revised my goals a bit and I will no longer be doing a point-by-point refutation of his book since much (as Holland himself admits) is speculatory, far too broad to refute directly and simply … Continue reading Abraha, the year of the elephant, and the location of Mecca in Tom Holland’s “In the Shadow of the Sword”
The Hadith Critical Methodology: A brief look at how Hadith are authenticated in the Islamic tradition.
Some time after the death of the Prophet, a need arose among the Muslims for an authentic source for the beliefs and ritual practices of the Prophet Muhammad (ص). The Qur'an, which was undoubtedly considered authentic and authoritative among all Muslims, did not provide much information about Muslim practice and Law. Indeed, it is the Hadith, that is, … Continue reading The Hadith Critical Methodology: A brief look at how Hadith are authenticated in the Islamic tradition.
Pondering Islam 